Barking Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Barking and surrounding areas
Barking welcomes the festive season with busy Christmas markets and holiday activities across the high street and town centre. Seasonal stalls, live music and Santa visits provide family-friendly entertainment and community engagement. From carol evenings to illuminated trails and craft fairs, Barking’s holiday attractions offer plenty of things to do and festive events for locals and visitors.
Find the best Barking Christmas happenings this year!
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Christmas Markets
24 eventsFestive West End destination with shopping and dining.
Christmas Parties
19 eventsEarly booking incentive for complimentary fizz
Christmas Shows
13 eventsPeter Wright's classic production of The Nutcracker ballet.
Christmas Lights
12 eventsAnnual Christmas lights switch-on with live entertainment and market
Christmas Activities
32 eventsImmersive theatrical Polar Express train journey with Santa visit.
Editor's Picks (6)
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The Nutcracker at Royal Opera House
(London)
Peter Wright's classic production of The Nutcracker ballet.
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Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
(London)
Annual gift of a Norwegian Christmas tree to London.
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THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride London
(London)
Immersive theatrical Polar Express train journey with Santa visit.
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Christmas in Covent Garden
(London)
Festive West End destination with shopping and dining.
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Free Holiday Activities - HAF Programme
Free holiday activities with meals for eligible children.
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Next Stop, Christmas
(London)
Festive family activities exploring London's transport history.
Events Happening Soon (2)
Barking Christmas Events Map
See every Christmas event, light display, and market on one map.
Also Near Barking
Barking Christmas FAQ
The town centre Christmas lights switch-on and seasonal markets are among the biggest annual events, often featuring live music, food stalls, and family activities.
Barking celebrates with community-focused events, including local choirs, craft fairs, and festive parades that bring neighbors together during the holidays.
The town centre and nearby parks are popular for Christmas lights, with many residential streets also joining in with festive decorations.
Christmas markets and local makers are usually found in the town centre and at community events in local parks, offering crafts, food, and festive goods.
Free activities include exploring Christmas light displays, attending community markets, and enjoying seasonal events in local parks and public spaces.
Families enjoy the Christmas lights switch-on, seasonal markets with kids' activities, and festive events in local parks, all designed to be welcoming for children.